Rivalries never end, including in the playoffs.

And this year the Cactus Cobras grabbed both wins against the Peoria Panthers in November. In Friday’s 4A state quarterfinals, Cactus put up 34 unanswered points to win 34-7.

But something bigger than football happened earlier in the day that truly put the rivalry aside and brought the Peoria communities together. Prior to the start of the game both teams gathered at midfield and held hands to pay tribute to a 14-year-old boy who was struck and killed while on his way to school Friday morning.

“You have to put things into perspective, and I told the guys the biggest thing happening here is a mother kissed her son goodbye this morning and life has changed,” Peoria coach Will Babb said. “Being you is great and they think they are invincible, and the fact is we are all on borrowed time and have to make the most of it.”

Cactus coach Joseph Ortiz said the teams are rivals but all part of the same community and in it together.

He gave credit to Peoria for continuing to play after suffering such tragedy.

Peoria come out strong, scoring the first touchdown of the game, a quarterback Kyle Samford rushing touchdown. But Cactus answered with a 63-yard punt return from Antonio Pratt to tie the game.

“Good teams make big plays at big times and we had some big passes and stops, and the Antonio Pratt punt return really changed the momentum of the game for us,” Ortiz said.

Cactus’ special teams came up with another big first quarter play when it blocked a punt for a safety.

Freshman Will Galvan picked off Peoria quarterback Kyle Samford just before the half to keep the momentum on Cactus’ side. Ortiz gave a lot of credit to defensive coordinator Brian Belles, the best defensive in the state, coach said.

“The kids followed the game plan and are just focused and determined. We made adjustments and the rest is history,” Ortiz said.

Cactus quarterback Conner Cordts said his team took an early hit but responded.

Senior wide receiver TJ Rucker had two big catches from Cordts, who said his connection with Rucker developed over the season and is a weapon with his leaping ability, speed and strength.

Cactus will take on Mesquite in the 4A semi-finals on Friday.